Celebrating Juneteenth in Gaston County 2026: Embracing Unity and Inclusion
- Melissa McCauley
- 3 days ago
- 3 min read
Across Gaston County, Juneteenth celebrations are bringing communities together through music, storytelling, food, art, and remembrance. From powerful historical exhibits to joyful outdoor festivals and live performances, these events honor freedom while celebrating the culture, creativity, and resilience that continue to shape the region today.
Throughout the month, music becomes a powerful thread connecting celebrations across Gaston County — from soulful classics and live bands to drumlines, dance performances, DJs, and outdoor concerts that keep the spirit of Juneteenth alive.
Visitors can experience everything from Black Music Month performances and cultural festivals to family activities, local vendors, educational exhibits, and community gatherings designed to celebrate heritage while bringing people together.
From Gastonia and Belmont to Cherryville, Ranlo, and Kings Mountain, each community brings its own unique energy and traditions to the celebration, giving residents and visitors the opportunity to experience Juneteenth in meaningful and memorable ways across the county.
Juneteenth in Gaston County 2026
Gastonia Ebony Fest 2026
EbonyFest Juneteenth 2026 returns with two community celebrations honoring culture, resilience, freedom, and unity across Gaston County.
Presented by HELP Carolina, this year’s theme, Rooted in Resilience, celebrates the strength, history, creativity, and community spirit that continue to inspire generations. Guests can enjoy a vibrant atmosphere filled with music, culture, food vendors, community engagement, and family-friendly experiences that bring people together in celebration and remembrance.
Liz and Shirley’s Food for the Soul will also be part of the celebration, serving delicious comfort food made with heart, flavor, and tradition.
Ebonyfest Community Celebrations
June 13 — Ranlo Battlefield, Ranlo
June 19 — Rotary Pavilion, Gastonia
Belmont Juneteenth Celebration
Saturday, June 20 | 2–9 p.m.
Stowe Park, Historic Belmont
Belmont’s free cultural festival will celebrate art, music, food, and culture throughout the day.
The celebration includes:
Arts and crafts
Food vendors
Cultural experiences
Live music throughout the day
Finale concert from 7–9 p.m.
Cherryville Juneteenth Celebration
Saturday, June 27 | 5–8 p.m.
Bill Edwards Park, 406 South Jacobs Street, Cherryville
The City of Cherryville’s Juneteenth Celebration will feature:
DJ entertainment
Food trucks
Inflatables and games
Guest speakers
Vendors and community activities
The event is free and family-friendly.
Bessemer City Juneteenth Celebration
Friday, June 12 | 6–10 p.m.
Bessemer City will host its annual Juneteenth Celebration featuring live entertainment and community performances.
Event Schedule
6:15 p.m. — Opening welcome and proclamation
Drummers for Lyfe!
DYEK
Lion of Judah Drumline
3D Dance Team
8:15 p.m. — Tiara V. Music of Festive City
Kings Mountain Juneteenth Celebration
Saturday, June 20 | 4–9 p.m.
Patriot’s Park, Kings Mountain
Kings Mountain’s celebration will feature the Voltage Brothers along with:
Live music and performances
Food trucks and vendors
Family activities
Cultural celebrations
Guests are encouraged to bring chairs, gather with friends and family, and celebrate freedom together.
African American Museum of History and Culture at Loray Mill
The African American Museum of History and Culture at Loray Mill in Gastonia will host several special events throughout June in celebration of Juneteenth, Black Music Month, and America 250.
An Evening with DJ Don
Tuesday, June 16 | 7–8 p.m.
African American Museum at Loray Mill, Gastonia
Kick off the Juneteenth festivities with a soulful evening celebrating Black Music Month. Guests can enjoy legendary hits and timeless rhythms during an evening with DJ Don.
Black Music Month Celebration
Saturday, June 20 | 7 p.m.
Lucy Penegar Grand Hall at Loray Mill
Tickets: $50 per person
Presented as part of the museum’s America 250 celebration, the evening will feature performances by:
Bettye Canada, pianist and vocalist
Chriscynethia Floyd, vocalist
Bruce Wiley, pianist
The Booker Wilson Band
From museums and community gardens to downtown parks and outdoor stages, these celebrations showcase the spirit, creativity, and shared experiences that make Gaston County’s communities special during this important national holiday.
